Translation guide
The most common and general word for 'lizard' in Japanese is トカゲ. There are also specific terms for certain types of lizards, such as geckos and skinks.
Referring to a typical small lizard, such as those found in gardens or as pets.
The standard word for 'lizard'. Can be written in kanji as 蜥蜴, but katakana is more common in everyday use.
There was a lizard in the garden.
I keep a lizard as a pet.
Specifically referring to a gecko, a type of lizard often found on walls.
The word for 'gecko'. Literally means 'house protector', as they are considered good luck. Often seen on walls at night.
A gecko is clinging to the wall.
Referring to a skink, a type of lizard with smooth, shiny scales and often short legs.
In everyday language, skinks are often just called トカゲ. There is no widely used specific term.
That lizard has short legs, doesn't it?
The loanword for 'skink', used mainly in scientific or pet trade contexts.
I research how to care for skinks.
Referring to a large lizard, such as a monitor lizard or iguana.
イグアナは大きくなる。
Iguanas get big.